Secondary systemic amyloidosis

Secondary systemic amyloidosis is a disorder in which abnormal proteins build up in tissues and organs. Clumps of the abnormal proteins are called amyloid deposits.

Secondary means it occurs because of another disease or situation. For example, this condition usually occurs as a result of long-term (chronic) infection or chronic inflammatory disease. Primary amyloidosis means there is no other disease that is causing the condition.

Systemic means that the disease affects the entire body.

Causes

The exact cause of amyloidosis is unknown. You are more likely to develop secondary systemic amyloidosis if you have a long-term infection or inflammation.

This condition may occur with:

Ankylosing spondylitis -- a form of arthritis that mostly affects the bones and joints at the base of the spine

Bronchiectasis -- disease in which the large airways in the lungs are damaged

Treatment

The condition that is causing the amyloidosis should be treated. In some cases, the drug colchicine or a biologic drug (medicine that treats the immune system) is prescribed.

Outlook (Prognosis)

How well a person does depends on which organs are affected and whether the disease that is causing it can be controlled. If the disease involves the heart and kidneys, it may lead to organ failure and death.

Possible Complications

Health problems that may result from secondary systemic amyloidosis include:

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